Access to Information

An impediment to launching a company is the process of navigating the maze of city processes and regulations. The problem is magnified for entrepreneurs in historically disenfranchised communities as they lack resources and networks to help navigate these systems. Local governments solve this issue by democratizing access to information to business owners.

CASE STUDY: DETROIT’S BIZGRID

Web platform to diagnose and provide contact information to address any startup’s needs. Has three main components: 1) Survey assessing stage of startup, 2) Survey diagnosing startup’s needs, 3) Output of organizations and contact information that can provide direct assistance to current needs: http://detroitbizgrid.com/

OVERVIEW

Origin: Launched in 2013 by the Detroit Business Support Network

Funding: Collaboration of non-profit and public actors, including the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation

Web-tool turned into physical brochure that is distributed in city offices and small business centers